04.12.2024 10:31
Armed opposition forces launched the largest attack against the government in recent years in northwestern Syria on Wednesday, November 27. As of Saturday, control of the country's second-largest city, Aleppo, has completely fallen into the hands of the opposition. However, there is a disagreement between Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the Syrian National Army regarding how the city will be governed following its capture. If the issue is not resolved, the loss of the city could be imminent...
After 8 years in Syria, opposition forces led by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) have taken control of a large area extending to the north of Hama, including the country's second-largest city, Aleppo.
CIVIL ENTRY HAS BEEN PROHIBITED
The opposition forces took control of Aleppo so quickly that soldiers from the Assad regime and thousands of militias coming from countries like Iran are still hiding within the city. They have prohibited civilian entry into Aleppo until they establish order, and a general curfew is enforced after 7:00 PM.
TENSE WAITING CONTINUES
The opposition is occupying all public buildings in the city. Finding bread is the biggest problem since bakeries in Aleppo are closed. NGOs working in the region are transporting bread to Aleppo. There are also shortages of electricity, drinking water, fuel, and internet. Almost all shops are closed. Civilians we spoke to indicate uncertainty, stating that it is too early to say anything. Cleaning is being done at Aleppo International Airport, which has come under the control of the opposition. Civilian planes in the area, which was under the control of the terrorist organization YPG for 2 days after the regime, were sent to Damascus 20 days ago. Only scrap fighter jets remain in the hangars.
THERE IS A SERIOUS DISAGREEMENT
Alongside all this, there is a disagreement between HTS, which led the capture of Aleppo, and the Syrian National Army regarding how the city will be governed. It is said that HTS has taken some areas under the control of the Syrian National Army in Aleppo by force. The disagreement is said to stem from HTS leader Abu Muhammad al-Julani's attitude of "I will manage everything."
ALEPPO COULD BE LOST
Negotiations are ongoing to resolve this disagreement. If the issues between these two groups cannot be resolved, Aleppo could be lost. The loss of Aleppo would have a butterfly effect and reverse the new process in Syria.